Marisa Baggett
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About Marisa
Marisa Baggett is a professionally trained sushi chef, cookbook author, and food storyteller specializing in plant-based Japanese cuisine. Drawing on her Southern roots and deep respect for traditional technique, she uses creativity as a pathway to sustainability—reimagining sushi with vibrant, whole food ingredients.
She’s the first Black woman in the U.S. to complete formal sushi chef training and is currently expanding her work through private dining, writing, and speaking engagements focused on food, identity, and cultural storytelling.
As Seen In
Morimoto’s Sushi Master
Contestant, Season 2 (The Roku Channel)
Culinary Characters Unlocked Podcast
Chef Marisa Baggett on Shattering Expectations…Ep 46
The Jewish Journal
”Chef Marisa Baggett: Culinary Creativity, Kosher Sushi, and Miso Mish Mash Soup”
Hey Alma
”Chef Marisa Baggett Almost Gave Up Cooking — Then Came ‘Morimoto’s Sushi Master’”
The Clarion-Ledger
”Mississippi Native Competes on National Sushi Making Show”
Speaking & Interview Topics
Marisa is available for keynotes, panels, podcast interviews, and culinary events.
Sample topics include:
What Sushi Taught Me About Identity
The Joy of Plant-Based Japanese Cuisine
Food as a Bridge: Exploring Culture Through the Plate
Creative Transitions: Reinventing Yourself Through Food